VP of Product - Digital Manufacturing Platforms
Directs the strategy and execution of software platforms for industrial automation and factory floor optimization.
Overview
This career involves steering the development of complex digital ecosystems that connect physical machinery to cloud-based intelligence. Daily activities revolve around harmonizing product roadmaps with commercial goals while ensuring that digital solutions solve real-world bottleneck issues in high-stakes production environments. Success in this field requires a deep understanding of how software can augment human labor and hardware performance without compromising safety or reliability.
The rhythm of the work is characterized by high-level strategic planning punctuated by deep technical reviews and stakeholder management across global sites. Professionals in this role often navigate the intersection of legacy industrial hardware and cutting-edge software trends like digital twins or machine learning. Those who thrive are typically analytical leaders capable of translating abstract technological potential into measurable improvements in factory throughput and operational costs.
Responsibilities
- Define the long-term product vision and strategic roadmap for digital manufacturing software suites.
- Lead cross-functional teams comprising product managers, designers, and engineers to deliver scalable industrial solutions.
- Collaborate with executive leadership to align product development with global business revenue targets.
- Analyze market trends and competitor offerings to identify opportunities for technological differentiation.
- Oversee the integration of hardware-software interfaces to ensure seamless data flow from the shop floor.
- Establish key performance indicators to measure the impact of digital tools on manufacturing efficiency.
- Manage strategic partnerships with external vendors and industrial automation hardware providers.
Qualifications
- A minimum of ten years experience in product management with a focus on enterprise software or industrial technology.
- Proven track record of launching and scaling B2B SaaS platforms or complex technical products.
- Demonstrated expertise in industrial IoT, automation protocols, or manufacturing execution systems.
- Advanced degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or Business Administration.
- Strong command of agile development methodologies within hardware-integrated software environments.
- Experience managing multi-million dollar product budgets and global resource allocation.
Nice to have
- Prior experience working directly within a large-scale automotive, aerospace, or electronics manufacturing facility.
- Specific certification in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or specialized industrial data standards.
- Publicly recognized thought leadership in the digital transformation or Industry 4.0 space.
- Experience navigating international regulatory requirements for industrial software safety and security.
Work environment
- Work is primarily conducted in professional office settings with frequent visits to industrial plant locations.
- The role involves regular collaboration with international teams across multiple time zones.
- Standard business hours are common, though high-stakes product launches may require extended schedules.
- Tools used include advanced product management software, data visualization platforms, and industrial monitoring systems.
- Travel to manufacturing sites and industry conferences is a consistent requirement of the position.
Benefits & growth
- Total compensation typically includes a significant base salary and performance-based annual bonuses.
- Equity grants or long-term incentive plans are standard for executive-level roles in this sector.
- Career progression pathways often lead to Chief Product Officer or Chief Operating Officer positions.
- Professional development is supported through executive coaching and participation in global technology forums.
- Opportunities exist to drive significant environmental and sustainability impacts through optimized industrial resource usage.
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